Man Found Dead Next To Seafront Pitch And Putt Course In Hove

Detectives are investigating the death of a middle-aged man whose body was found next to a seafront pitch and putt course.

Police were called to near the Western Esplanade in Hove, East Sussex, at around 8.30pm on Monday following a call from community workers from a homeless project.

Police have confirmed that the death is being treated as murder and the victim was discovered by local homeless project workers.

The death of the man, believed to be in his 40s, is being treated as suspicious and detectives understand the victim might have known his attacker.

Appealing for anyone with information to come forward, he said: "The seafront is a popular area with residents and there will be a visible presence of officers who are happy to answer any concerns locals may have.

Police disclosed that the victim, who suffered a severe head injury, had been sleeping rough.

Officers appealed to members of the street community to come forward with any information.

Mr Pollard said: "This was a vicious attack, the motive of which is not yet known nor how the deceased's injuries were inflicted.

"I know the street community are very close knit, but I would appeal to them to please get in touch if they have any information that could help us with our inquiries no matter how relevant they think it is."

Western Esplanade in Hove

Mr Pollard said that specialist search teams were continuing their examination of the area.

He added: "We have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this investigation and we will not stop until we find the person or persons responsible for this brutal attack.

"I would also like to thank those members of the street community and partner agencies for their support and help with the investigation to date.

"Brighton and Hove has a visible street community but one that local officers regularly liaise with.

"I'm confident that if someone from that community can help us solve this terrible crime, they will."

Anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 101, quoting Operation Depot, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.